Dubai isn’t just a city, it’s a statement. From record-breaking skyscrapers to unparalleled luxury, every detail is designed to impress. Nowhere is this more evident than in its car culture. The city’s roads double as a showroom, where rare and vintage supercars are more than just possessions, they’re works of art, investment assets, and status symbols.
In recent years, classic car values in Dubai have surged, with multi-million-dollar auctions setting new records and private collectors amassing some of the world’s most coveted automotive treasures. From record-breaking Ferrari GTO sales to rare Aston Martins changing hands within the UAE, Dubai has become a dominant force in the global classic car market.
The Rise of the Rare Supercar Market in Dubai
Over the last decade, Dubai’s classic and vintage supercar sector has seen significant growth, driven by investment potential, collector demand, and global market shifts.
Auction Records & Market Performance
Dubai’s high-net-worth car collectors have been actively influencing global supercar values, often setting new benchmarks at international auctions.
The UAE’s classic car market is projected to grow from $1.23 billion in 2023 to $1.83 billion by 2032, with a 4.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR).
In March 2024, RM Sotheby’s first-ever Dubai auction grossed over $17 million, solidifying the city’s reputation as a premier destination for collector cars.
Dubai-based buyers accounted for over $250 million in classic car sales in 2023, with Ferrari and Lamborghini models seeing the highest appreciation.
Dubai vs. Other Classic Car Markets
While Dubai’s classic car market is growing, how does it compare to other global hotspots? Dubai’s edge lies in tax-free investments, bespoke storage solutions, and a growing ultra-high-net-worth collector base, making it an increasingly dominant player.
Notable Record-Breaking Sales in Dubai
Some of the most significant classic car transactions involving UAE-based collectors include:
Ferrari 250 GTO (1962) – Sold for $72 million, with Middle Eastern buyers among the highest bidders.
Koenigsegg Agera RSR (2016) – One of only three made, this hypercar sold for $3.38 million at RM Sotheby’s Dubai in March 2024.
Porsche 959 (1971) – A private sale in Dubai exceeded $3.5 million, reflecting the growing demand for ultra-rare examples.
Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Stirling Moss (2009) – Fetched $3.2 million, setting a new auction record for the model.
Aston Martin Valkyrie – The first of its kind sold at public auction, achieving $3.07 million.
Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing (1954-1957) – A Dubai dealership sold a meticulously restored model for over $2.1 million, marking a 40% price surge since 2018.
Pagani Zonda 760 LM Roadster – Sold at RM Sotheby’s Dubai auction in December 2024 for approximately $11 million, one of the highest prices ever recorded for this model.
Why Dubai is a Magnet for Rare Supercars
What makes Dubai such a hotspot for collectors? It’s a mix of financial advantages, exclusivity, and a thriving luxury market:
Tax-Free Investment – Unlike many countries, Dubai imposes no import duties or capital gains tax on classic car investments.
Premier Auction Scene – From RM Sotheby’s to Bonhams and local luxury car dealerships, Dubai hosts some of the world’s most exclusive auctions.
Bespoke Garages & Car Vaults – Luxury homes in Dubai are designed to house automotive treasures, featuring climate-controlled garages, private lifts, and glass-walled showrooms.
Global Influence on Supercar Values – Dubai collectors are setting new price benchmarks, influencing global demand for rare automobiles.
Exclusive Collector Community – Dubai’s HNWIs often hold private events, showcasing their collections in an environment tailored for high-end networking.
Owning a rare supercar here isn’t just about the drive, it’s about curating a collection in a city that appreciates its value.
The Art of Collecting: Five Timeless Icons in Dubai
For those looking to make a serious investment, Dubai’s classic car auctions regularly feature some of the rarest machines on the planet. Here are five legendary classics that continue to captivate collectors and investors alike:
Ferrari 250 GTO (1962-1964)
Regarded as the Holy Grail of classic Ferraris, the 250 GTO is a masterpiece of design and engineering. With only 36 units ever built, its rarity is matched only by its record-breaking auction prices, making it one of the most expensive collector cars in history.
Lamborghini Miura P400 SV (1971)
Widely credited as the world’s first true supercar, the Lamborghini Miura SV combines timeless Italian styling with a 4.0L V12 engine. With fewer than 150 units produced, this car is a rare gem that defines an era of automotive excellence.
Porsche 959 (1986-1988)
A technological marvel ahead of its time, the Porsche 959 was one of the fastest production cars of the 1980s, featuring a 2.8L twin-turbocharged flat-six engine and an advanced all-wheel-drive system. Its rarity, only 292 units built, and groundbreaking design make it a must-have for serious collectors.
Aston Martin DB5 (1963-1965)
Famous for its association with James Bond, the Aston Martin DB5 is a symbol of elegance and performance. With a 4.0L straight-six engine and a timeless silhouette, this car remains one of the most desirable classic grand tourers in the world.
Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing (1954-1957)
An icon of innovation and style, the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing is instantly recognisable by its upward-opening doors. Featuring a 3.0L straight-six engine and groundbreaking fuel injection technology, it remains a cornerstone of any elite car collection.
Dubai’s Growing Classic Car Market: A Future of Investment-Grade Luxury
Dubai’s classic and vintage car market isn’t just thriving, it’s expanding. With the city’s strategic location, tax benefits, and a deep appreciation for collectable automobiles, the demand for rare supercars is expected to grow in the coming years.
The classic car market is projected to hit $1.83 billion by 2032.
Dubai-based buyers are among the world’s top bidders at international auctions.
Luxury investors increasingly view rare automobiles as appreciating assets.
More Than a Car, It’s a Statement
In a city where status is reflected in every detail, owning a rare supercar in Dubai is more than just a purchase, it’s an investment in art, history, and prestige. Whether displayed in a glass-walled garage overlooking Palm Jumeirah or driven through the streets of Downtown Dubai, these machines are a testament to exclusivity.
